Rice, Ham, and Broccoli Bake

This comforting dish combines tender rice, savory ham, and fresh broccoli for a hearty meal that's perfect any night of the week. It's easy to make and sure to become a family favorite with its creamy, cheesy goodness.

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TIME1 hr 15 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ onion, chopped 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour 5 cups milk 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese salt and ground black pepper to taste 3 cups chopped, cooked broccoli 2 cups chopped, cooked ham 2 cups cooked white rice 1 cup crushed buttery round crackers ½ cup sliced almonds 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onion. Cook it for about 4 minutes until it smells amazing and is just starting to turn translucent. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir it in, cooking for another 3 minutes. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to keep things smooth and lump-free. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens up nicely, which should take around 15 minutes.

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Step 2

Once the sauce is thick, add the Colby-Jack cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce starts to bubble, then take it off the heat. In a big bowl, mix together the cooked broccoli, ham, and rice. Pour the cheesy sauce over everything and stir until it’s all combined. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish.

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Step 3

Sprinkle crushed crackers, sliced almonds, and crumbled bacon on top for a nice crunchy finish. Pop it in the oven and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and golden. Let it cool just a bit before serving, and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use day-old rice for better texture and less moisture.
- Steam the broccoli briefly to keep it crisp and bright green.
- Add a little extra cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines comforting flavors with a hearty mix of ingredients. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for using up leftover ham. The broccoli adds a nice pop of color and nutrition, making it a balanced meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Serving ideas

Serve this bake with a simple green salad or a side of fresh fruit to lighten the meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can add a fresh touch and enhance the flavors.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.